[This is a guest post by our director of public relations, Claudine Domingue]

Recently the COC was approached by Heritage Toronto to put a plaque on our building at 227 Front St. E. to mark its designation as a Heritage Building and its historical significance to the city's architecture. We were pleased to accept Heritage Toronto’s offer as we are equally proud of the building and its past.  

You can find the new plaque at the front of the building.

The plaque reads:

STANDARD WOOLLEN MILLS BUILDING

This former industrial building was constructed in phases over two decades as Standard Woollen Mills expanded its operations. The earliest portion, constructed in 1882 and distinguished by its buff and blackened brick detailing, was designed by E. J. Lennox, one of Toronto’s most celebrated architects. The plain, red brick eastern section and fourth floors were later additions. Owned by Standard Woollen Mills until 1926, the building was converted for use by the Canadian Opera Company in 1987.
Designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, 1985

While the Heritage Toronto plaque went up, some of you may have noticed that the COC’s signage, also on Front Street, came down letter by letter. Never fear, we’re not moving! The letters will be stored in a safe place while some much-needed repair work is done on our brick façade over the coming months.

 

Photos © Canadian Opera Company 2011